Making Father’s Day Special Put a little thought—and a lot of love—into his gift

Making Father’s Day Special Put a little thought—and a lot of love—into his gift

This is the second year that my household will be celebrating Father’s Day. Like most new parents, I love spending time with my daughter—especially when she’s awesome, funny and filled with wonder. Those other moments, when the stomping tyrant emerges? Well, the first item on my Father’s Day wish list is to be at the grill or on an errand when that happens.

I’m not asking for any big-ticket items for Father’s Day. In fact, taking a nap when the baby does would make my day. But I might not be like most guys. Most of the men I know like the same stuff they did when they were 12, only the toys are bigger and the gadgets more high-tech.

That said, sometimes we dads get short-changed on Father’s Day and receive a tie that we are obliged to wear or some socks or a T-shirt declaring “World’s Best Dad.” If you are set on buying Dad a tee, make sure it at least equates him to a rock icon, athletic phenom or Zeus.

But if you want to put more thought into his gift, consider his interests. You can put most fathers’ pastimes into a few buckets: sports, outdoor activities, hobbies using his hands (like woodworking, gardening, etc.) and hobbies using his head (reading, technology, music, etc). Now ask yourself this question: “What does my dad really love to do that he won’t spend money on?”

If you’re short on time, the easiest way to get Dad something he will enjoy is to pick up a gift card for his favorite store. I’m always super excited to get a gift card to my favorite bike shop, REI, Cabela’s or Best Buy. If you have a little time to spare, there is nothing better for a parent to receive than something you made yourself. But don’t worry if you’re not crafty; just load up your favorite pictures to Cafe Press and make a custom mobile phone case, photo album or a beer stein. (Save with Cafe Press coupons.)

Finally, remember to include a card. A little sentiment goes a long way with us dads.

Wishing you all a Happy Father’s Day! And to my own dad, Skip, I hope you catch many a fish on Father’s Day!